Why is my mushroom developing strangely?
If you've noticed that your mushroom is not growing as expected, there could be a few reasons for this. In this article, we'll go over some common causes for abnormal mushroom growth and what you can do to fix it.
High CO₂ levels
Yellow Oyster with elongated fruit body
One possible reason for your mushroom's abnormal growth is high levels of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the environment. This can happen if your mushroom is kept in a closed or poorly ventilated space. When CO₂ levels are too high, it can affect the shape of the fruit body, resulting in a high proportion of stems and a lower culinary value.
If you suspect that high CO₂ levels are the cause of your mushroom's abnormal growth, try moving it to a different location with better ventilation. This will allow the excess CO₂ to dissipate and help your mushroom grow properly.
Physical damage
Another possible cause for abnormal mushroom growth is physical damage to the fruit body. This can happen if the mushroom is accidentally bumped or touched, resulting in an abnormal shape or size. While the mushroom may still be safe to consume, it may not look as visually appealing as a perfectly formed mushroom.
To prevent physical damage to your mushroom, be careful when handling it and try to avoid any unnecessary contact. If you do notice any damage, it's best to consume the mushroom as soon as possible before it spoils.
Temperature fluctuations
Lastly, high daytime temperature fluctuations in the room can also affect the growth of your mushroom. If the temperature in the room is constantly changing, it can disrupt the growth process and result in abnormal fruit body shapes.
To prevent this, try moving your Shrooly to a location with less temperature fluctuation. If that's not possible, you can also try to reduce the fluctuation in its current location by adjusting the thermostat to regulate the temperature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a few possible reasons for your mushroom's abnormal growth. By understanding these causes and taking the necessary steps to address them, you can ensure that your mushroom grows properly and is safe to consume. Remember, nature is constantly responding to external influences, so don't be too concerned if your mushroom looks a little different from the standard form. Happy growing!